Itineraries
Laurel Fork Family Loop
Journey Overview
Laurel Fork Family Loop offers a three-day adventure from Elkins through Seneca Rocks and Durbin, with a perfect blend of scenic train or rail-trail rides, easy nature trails, interactive discovery centers, and small-town charm. Flexible pacing and accessible trails make this an ideal introduction to West Virginia’s mountain landscapes for families seeking adventure without the need for strenuous backcountry hiking. The route showcases the region’s railroad heritage, stunning rock formations, and high-elevation landscapes. Designed for families with younger children, this itinerary emphasizes short interpretive trails, hands-on learning experiences, and flexible pacing with plenty of opportunities for picnics, swimming, and wildlife watching.
Best Times to Visit
Late May through early June and mid-September through mid-October offer ideal conditions.
- Pleasant temperatures for hiking with children; cooler at higher elevations
- Wildflowers in spring; spectacular fall foliage in autumn
- Discovery centers, scenic railroads, and campgrounds are fully operational
- Early Spring brings lower crowds compared to peak summer and fall months
- Swimming holes at Stuart Recreation Area and
- Seneca Rocks are refreshing in warm weather.
Itinerary
Day 1: Elkins
Morning
Breakfast in Downtown Elkins
Start the day with coffee and breakfast at one of Elkins’ local favorites
- TipTop Cafe: Offers specialty coffee drinks and pastries in a modern space
- Byrd’s House of Donuts: Open early serving wide array of freshly-made donuts.
- The Crossing Coffee Bar: Inside the Delmonte Market, features specialty lattes, daily lunch specials, and a cute shopping area.
- Scottie’s of Elkins: provides classic American diner fare with breakfast served all day.
Elkins Welcome Depot
Stop by the historic Elkins Depot and Welcome Center to grab some maps and check for seasonal events and activities.
Bickle Knob Observation Tower
After breakfast, drive northeast on US33 into the Monongahela National Forest to Bickle Knob. This 1933 Civilian Conservation Corps fire tower offers 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ridges and valleys—a perfect introduction to the Highland region. The short walk to the tower is ideal for young children, and the observation deck offers excellent opportunities to spot birds and discuss forest history.
- Distance and trail type: 0.2 miles out-and-back
- Elevation gain: 40 feet
- Estimated time: 15–30 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy (Stairs to Observation Platform)
Midday
Choose between two excellent options for midday adventure:
Option A: Allegheny Highlands Trail Bike Ride
Rent bikes at Joey’s Bike Shop in downtown Elkins (reservations recommended) and enjoy a leisurely ride on the Allegheny Highlands Trail. The first several miles from the Elkins Depot are paved, following the route of the historic Western Maryland Railway through pastoral farmland along the Black Fork River. This flat, family-friendly section offers relaxed riverside scenery and is suitable for children who can ride independently or in trail-a-bikes. After the ride, return the bikes and grab lunch at one of downtown Elkins’ restaurants.
- Distance: Variable; approximately 5 miles out-and-back recommended for families with young children
- Elevation Gain: Variable; but grade is minimal.
- Estimated Time: 1-2 hrs
- Difficulty: Easy
Option B: New Tygart Flyer Scenic Railroad
Board the vintage diesel-powered New Tygart Flyer at the Elkins Depot for a four-hour wilderness excursion to the High Falls of Cheat. The train climbs through two mountain grades, passes through a 1,800-foot S-curve tunnel, and crosses a high bridge over the Shavers Fork of the Cheat River before arriving at an 18-foot-high, 150-foot-wide waterfall. A cold-cut lunch is included with the ticket. Children are captivated by the train experience and the chance to explore the falls during the stop. Note: The train features steps to enter, check current schedules, and book in advance.
Afternoon
Downtown Elkins Exploration
Spend the afternoon exploring downtown Elkins. Visit the Appalachian Forest Discovery Center at the historic Darden Mill to learn about the region’s forest heritage through interactive exhibits and have their National Park Service Passport stamped. The West Virginia Railroad Museum, located upstairs, showcases the area’s rail history. Browse the shops along Davis Avenue, pick up local treats at the Delmonte Market, and let kids run off energy at Elkins City Park.
Night
Dinner Options
- C.J. Maggie’s: Family-friendly American fare with vegetarian options
- Bambino’s Bistro: Italian favorites like pizza and pasta perfect for kids.
- Smoke on the Water BBQ: Cozy family atmosphere with a wide variety of smoked meats.
- Food Trucks & Big Timber Brewing: Grab a pint in Big Timber’s family-friendly brewhouse, enjoy the outdoor patio space with a game of cornhole, and fill up with food from local food trucks.
Evening Activities
Check with the Augusta Heritage Center or Randolph County Community Arts Center for seasonal live music, square dances, or family-friendly events. The Augusta Festival in the summer offers excellent programming for all ages.
Lodging Options
- Tygart Hotel: Historic downtown hotel with modern amenities and powerful artistic storytelling.
- Holiday, Wingate, Hampton Inn Hotels: Family-friendly chain hotels with pools and breakfast
- Stuart Recreation Area Campground: USFS campground 6 miles from Elkins with river swimming and a 2-mile nature trail; electric hookups and showers available; open mid-April through mid-October.
- Waterfront Rentals & BnBs: Discover dozens of riverfront or downtown rentals in the greater Elkins area.
Day 2: Elkins to Seneca Rocks & Spruce Knob
Morning
Breakfast in Elkins
Make a return trip or discover a new favorite of the breakfast options listed in Day 1 before departing!
Stuart Recreation Area River Loop Trail (Optional)
If the family has energy for a morning hike before driving to Seneca Rocks, stop at Stuart Recreation Area. The River Loop Trail follows the banks of the Shavers Fork River through mixed forest, offering excellent opportunities for bird watching, wildlife spotting, and wading in the river on warm days. The trail is mostly flat and shaded, perfect for young hikers.
- Distance: 2-mile loop, natural surface
- Elevation gain: Minimal
- Estimated time: 1–1.5 hours
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate (some uneven terrain)
Driving to Seneca Rocks
From Elkins, take US-33 East toward Seneca Rocks (approximately 45 minutes). The route climbs through forested mountains with several scenic pullouts. Stop at the overlook near the top of Allegheny Mountain for long views into the valley below.
Midday
Lunch at Seneca Rocks
Grab lunch at the Front Porch Restaurant (offering Appalachian cuisine with a view of the rocks) or pick up sandwiches at Yokum’s Store (West Virginia’s oldest general store, established in 1892) for a picnic at the Discovery Center grounds.
Seneca Rocks Discovery Center & Sites Homestead
Spend time at the Seneca Rocks Discovery Center, which offers exhibits on the region’s natural and cultural history, wildlife displays, and a gift shop. Children can watch climbers scaling the 900-foot Tuscarora quartzite formation from viewing platforms. Walk next door to the Sites Homestead, an 1839 log home with heritage gardens. On summer weekends, costumed interpreters demonstrate frontier skills and crafts. The homestead grounds and gardens are open daily during regular hours.
Afternoon
Seneca Rocks Trail (Optional but Memorable)
For families with older or more adventurous children, the hike to the Seneca Rocks observation platform is often the highlight of a trip to this region. The trail climbs steadily through the forest to a wooden platform with stunning views of the North Fork Valley and the sheer rock face. While the climb is steep, children who complete it gain a tremendous sense of accomplishment. Parents should assess their children’s stamina and comfort with elevation before attempting the activity. Bring plenty of water and snacks.
- Distance: 2.6 miles out-and-back
- Elevation gain: 900 feet
- Estimated time: 1.5–2.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous (steady uphill climb, rocky surface, and stairs)
Alternative: Families with very young children can enjoy the flat, paved trail from the Discovery Center to the base of the rocks, including a swimming hole in Seneca Creek near the bridge.
Night
Sunset at Spruce Knob
Drive to Spruce Knob, the highest point in West Virginia at 4,863 feet (approximately 45 minutes from Seneca Rocks via Forest Road 112). Walk the easy Whispering Spruce Trail, a half-mile loop through stunted, wind-sculpted red spruce trees to the observation tower. The 360-degree views at sunset are spectacular. Note: Temperatures drop significantly at this elevation; bring warm layers.
Whispering Spruce Trail
- Distance: 0.5-mile loop
- Elevation gain: Minimal
- Estimated time: 30–45 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
Lodging Options
- Seneca Shadows Campground: Large Forest Service family-friendly campground one mile south of Seneca Rocks with flush toilets, showers, electric hookups, and walk-in tent sites; open mid-April through late October
- Spruce Knob Lake Campground: Wooded ridge-top Forest Service campground overlooking a 25-acre lake near Spruce Knob; vault toilets, no electric; open mid-April through mid-October
- Gatewood Group Campground: Small Forest Service group campground near Spruce Knob Lake; vault toilets, no electric; reservable for larger family groups
- Yokum’s Vacationland: Cabins and motel rooms at Seneca Rocks with camping, pool, and general store
- Harman’s Luxury Log Cabins: Well-appointed cabins near Seneca Rocks
Day 3: Durbin, Green Bank & Return to Elkins
Morning
Driving to Durbin
From Seneca Rocks or Spruce Knob, head south on US-33 to US-250 South, then continue to Durbin (approximately 1 hour from Seneca Rocks). The route follows the Greenbrier River valley through remote mountain scenery.
Breakfast in Durbin
Stop at Simply Sweet Cafe in downtown Durbin for homemade baked goods, coffee, and breakfast. This small-town cafe offers a cozy atmosphere and is open Wednesday through Sunday.
Option A: Green Bank Observatory
Drive east from Durbin on WV-28/92 to Green Bank (approximately 20 minutes).
The Green Bank Observatory is home to the Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope, the world’s largest fully steerable radio telescope. Guided bus tours take visitors onto the telescope grounds to see the massive 485-foot dish up close, a thrilling experience for children and adults alike. The Science Center features interactive exhibits on radio astronomy, space exploration, and the National Radio Quiet Zone (the area where electronic devices are restricted to prevent interference). Kids can operate models, explore space concepts, and enjoy the Starlight Cafe for sandwiches, wraps, and hand-dipped ice cream. Check tour schedules in advance.
Option B: Cass Scenic Railroad State Park
Drive south from Durbin on WV-92 past Green Bank and turn left onto WV-66. (approximately 30 minutes).
Once a lumber boom town, Cass Scenic Railroad State Park offers family-friendly steam train rides aboard historic Shay locomotives that once hauled timber through these mountains. Ride options range from shorter trips to nearby Whittaker Station to longer, half-day excursions climbing high ridgelines toward Bald Knob or the remote ghost town of Spruce. Cass’s intact company town, restored rail yard, and panoramic mountain views bring West Virginia’s logging era to life- blending easy adventure, hands-on history, and unforgettable scenery that appeals to kids, parents, and grandparents alike.
Midday
Return to Durbin for Lunch (if not on Cass’s Bald Knob Trip)
- Station 2 Restaurant: Offers hearty meals in a historic railroad building near the train depot.
- Rustic Roots Bar & Grill: Relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with hearty American fare.
After lunch, explore downtown Durbin’s historic walking tour, small collection of shops, and the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad depot, where you can see historic locomotives.
West Fork Rail Trail
Take a short walk along the West Fork Rail Trail, which begins near downtown Durbin. This crushed limestone rail-trail follows the West Fork of the Greenbrier River through remote mountain scenery. The flat, easy surface is ideal for families with strollers or young children. Walk as far as the kids are willing, even a half-mile out-and-back offers scenic river views and wildlife-watching opportunities. Beaver activity is common along this stretch, and deer, birds, and other wildlife are frequently spotted.
- Distance: Variable; out-and-back as far as desired (full trail is 22+ miles)
- Elevation Gain: Variable, but the grade is minimal.
- Estimated Time: 0.5 – 1 hour
- Difficulty: Easy
Afternoon
Driving to Gaudineer Knob
From Durbin, head north on US-250 toward Elkins. After approximately 15 miles, watch for signs to Gaudineer Knob Scenic Area on the left (Forest Road 27).
Gaudineer Knob Scenic Area
This National Natural Landmark protects approximately 50 acres of virgin red spruce forest, trees that were standing when European settlers first arrived. The interpretive loop trail is one of two short 0.5-mile loops and winds through towering 300-year-old spruces with trunks over 40 inches in diameter. The quiet, cathedral-like atmosphere is magical for children, and interpretive signs explain the forest’s ecology and history. The second loop offers a magical experience with minimal elevation gain and a beautiful overlook at the midpoint.
Gaudineer Knob Scenic Interpretive Loop Trail
- Distance: 0.5-mile loop
- Elevation gain: 70 feet
- Estimated time: 20–30 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy (packed earth with some roots)
Gaudineer Knob Loop Trail
- Distance: 0.5-mile loop
- Elevation gain: 40 feet
- Estimated time: 10-20 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy (gravel path)
Optional Stop: Cheat Summit Fort
Continuing north on US-250, history-minded families can stop at Cheat Summit Fort, a Civil War site where Union forces built a fortification in 1861 to control the Staunton-Parkersburg Turnpike. This was the site of one of General Robert E. Lee’s first campaigns. Interpretive signs explain the battle history, and the earthworks remain visible. A short 0.25-mile interpretive trail explores the site. This may be of greater interest to older children with some knowledge of the Civil War.
- Distance and trail type: 0.25-mile out and back
- Elevation gain: 20 feet
- Estimated time: 10-25 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
Night
Sunset at Mower Basin Overlook
Before returning to Elkins, catch the sunset at the Mower Basin Overlook atop Barton Knob, located off US 250 at the Mower Basin sign. Continue of Forest Road 227 until you reach the first campsite and turn left. The open ridgeline offers sweeping views of former strip-mine land now undergoing ecological restoration, transitioning to a dense, mossy spruce forest.
Return to Elkins for Dinner
Complete the loop by returning to Elkins (approximately 30 minutes from Gaudineer Knob) for a final dinner. Try Big Timber Brewing Company for craft beer and a relaxed atmosphere (outside food welcome; open Tuesday through Sunday), Fox Hops Brewery (opened 2024, women-owned, serves food), or Clementines Cantina (made-to-order burritos and bowls, open late!) For family dining, C.J. Maggie’s or any of the restaurants enjoyed on Day 1 make excellent choices.
Planning Notes
Navigation and Cell Service
Cell service is limited or nonexistent throughout much of this route, particularly around Spruce Knob, Dolly Sods, and the more remote forest roads. Download offline maps before departing and carry a paper atlas as backup. GPS devices with downloaded maps are more reliable than phone navigation in this region.
Weather Considerations
Mountain weather changes rapidly. Temperatures at Spruce Knob (4,863 feet) can be 15–20 degrees cooler than in Elkins. Pack layers, rain gear, and warm clothing even in summer. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the mountains; plan to be off exposed ridgelines and observation towers by mid-afternoon during unsettled weather.
Seasonal Closures
Many facilities in the Monongahela National Forest close in late fall and do not reopen until mid-spring. Seneca Rocks Discovery Center closes in late October. Campgrounds typically close between mid-October and early December. Forest roads to Spruce Knob and Gaudineer Knob are not maintained in winter and may be impassable when snow-covered. Always check current conditions with the Forest Service before traveling in shoulder seasons.
Packing for Families
Bring plenty of snacks and water for trail activities; services are limited between towns. Pack swimsuits for river swimming at Stuart Recreation Area and Seneca Creek. Binoculars enhance wildlife watching. Bug spray is essential in summer months. Sunscreen is important at high elevations where UV exposure is stronger.
Leave No Trace
Pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and respect wildlife. The Monongahela National Forest is home to black bears. Store food properly at campgrounds and never approach or feed wildlife. Teach children to appreciate wild spaces by leaving them better than they found them.